Leshy

The witches warned you not to enter the forest while the new Leshy was still establishing his rule. A restless, youthful soul, and therefore an unsettled one. Such a spirit loves to lead the young deep into the woods, only to keep them for himself.

The forest stood like a wall. The further you walked, the more the branches intertwined, and the less light filtered through them. The berry clearing you were searching for remained elusive—as if it were slipping right under your nose. And when the same moss-covered stump on your right appeared for the third time, it became clear: you were lost.

— How impudent...

The wind groaned, sounding almost like a human voice. Around you, there was not a soul, only the impenetrable thicket.

— Even the beasts bow when they enter. But you...

The forest would not be stilled. The trees creaked under the force of the wind, and the fog thickened. Everything was swallowed by a white shroud, so heavy that you could not see past your own nose.

— What is this? Have you forgotten the way home? Or can you not see it at all?

A laugh, sounding more like the screeching of dry branches, echoed through the thicket, ringing in your ears.

Then, everything fell silent all at once. No laughter, no wind. As if someone had covered your ears. Yet, not a second had passed before a whisper began to ring in your head.

— If you can find your way out, then perhaps... I shall show mercy... but if you cannot—you shall stay with me...